A successful Barnet-based web site which reunites old school friends looks set to feature on our television screens.

Friendsreunited entrepreneurs Steve and Julie Pankhurst, of Milton Avenue, Barnet, are in talks with a number of UK broadcasters over the production of television spin-offs based on the hit web site which has attracted 2.7million members since it was launched in August last year.

The site contains a database of 40,000 UK schools and universities and helps former pupils contact old classmates.

Mr Pankhurst said: "We are enjoying the thought of contributing to TV programmes of this genre and are sure that our members will thoroughly enjoy and want to contribute to this scheme themselves."

Recently half a million messages had to be removed from its internet pages following a threat of legal action from the National Union of Head Teachers who thought some of them were insulting to teachers.

Meanwhile, the site faces competition from Ginger Television which has come up with its own nostalgia show called Reunions which is due to be screened in America on the music channel VH1.

Mr Pankhurst remained unfazed by the news.

He said: "We have no problem with Ginger doing a programme as we've got our own ideas for some really exciting innovative programmes using various themes.

"The first should be coming to your screens in the next few months so watch this space."

November 28, 2001 19:53

SARAH MILLS